'K-pop Demon Hunters' has BTS' DNA? Netflix anime film traced back to Bangtan boys' iconic COVID-19 virtual concert

Netflix’s recently released K-pop Demon Hunters is gaining global attention, with everyone talking about everything from the characters' visuals to the catchy soundtrack. In light of all the love and excitement the animated film is receiving, directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans have opened up about the inspiration behind the concept.

Director Maggie Kang emphasized how deeply the film is rooted in the global influence of Korean culture. "This film is inspired by the enormous influence Korean culture has had in entertainment - K-pop, Korean movies, dramas. It's the first animated film set in modern Korea to explore that culture. All the voice actors and vocalists are Korean talent, which makes it even more meaningful," she said according to Naver.

She added, "It's been a dream of mine since I first started working. Sharing this with the cast has been incredibly rewarding. While making the film, I was so touched to hear from artists who weren't familiar with Korean culture or K-pop say they still deeply connected with the characters and music. It reminded me why we make these films - because stories transcend background or language. We all have insecurities, we all seek connection."

Co-director Chris Appelhans also shared that the idea for the film was born during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. "Maggie and I began planning this film during the pandemic—a time when people all over the world were struggling to feel connected. Then BTS held an online concert, and suddenly millions of people, including us, were singing and dancing to Dynamite from our homes. For a moment, the world felt a little brighter."

That moment became a creative catalyst. "We wanted to make something fun, trendy, and packed with action - everything you'd expect from a film like K-Pop Demon Hunters. But I also wanted to capture that rare feeling when a powerful song touches your heart, drowns out the noise, and even silences the demons inside us."

Appelhans closed with a heartfelt wish: "Through the characters' journeys and the songs they sing, I hope viewers can feel even a fraction of the joy and light BTS gave us during that time."


The animated film follows Huntricks, a K-pop girl group who secretly battle evil spirits using their voices, and their rivals, Lion Boys - idols made entirely of dark forces. This unique twist on K-pop idol culture has struck a chord with audiences worldwide.

Featuring high-energy tracks like Golden, Soda Pop, and Takedown, the film blends K-pop style with traditional Korean elements. Its fresh concept and cultural depth have earned it critical acclaim, including a 96% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

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